We have compiled the best information, tools and resources to aid you in planning your wedding. Do you have ideas you'd like to share with brides? Email us your helpful hints and tips to info@banquetevent.com!

YOU'VE WAITED A LONG TIME TO GET MARRIEDYour wedding date is a year away - it seems like an eternity! As formal weddings have become more and more popular, you should allow about one year for planning. Many reception facilities are reserved as far as twelve to eighteen months in advance during the summer months and December. The size and formality of your wedding will play an important part in determining your date and schedule. Even if your wedding is small and less formal, allow yourself a minimum of three months. The more time you have to plan, the better your chances of reserving your first choices. On the biggest day of your life, who wants to settle for less? With all you have to do, time will fly quicker than you think!

The following schedule and checklist provide you with the basis for organizing your planning time and ensure that all the details will be handled. These are strictly recommendations; we encourage you to see when the businesses themselves say they need to be reserved as you read the rest of the book.AFTER ENGAGEMENT - SIX MONTHS AND BEFORE

Decide where you'll be living and send change-of-address cards to post office

Confirm accommodations arranged for out-of-town guests

Get your final count of guests to caterer

Delegate last-minute errands and details

Make any necessary lists for photographer, videographer, and musicians

Ask a responsible person to coordinate services and people on the wedding day; give them a list of who and what is supposed to be where and when

Get your marriage license. Note: If you were married before, you'll need to know the date and place of the divorce or annulment. You may also need to have paperwork proof of divorce or annulment

Pick up your wedding rings; make sure they are the correct sizes

Pick up wedding attire; try it all on one last time to make sure it fits

Make sure bridesmaids have their dresses, shoes, and accessories, and they all fit

Keep up on writing thank-yous; don't let them accumulate

Pamper yourself and make sure you eat right and get enough sleep

THE WEDDING DAY

Eat a good breakfast

Relax and enjoy getting ready for your big day

Go to the hairdresser or start fixing your hair a few hours prior to the wedding

Put all the accessories you will need for dressing in one place

If pictures are being taken before the ceremony, be ready at least two hours before

Just enjoy the day! All your months of planning will make your day perfect!

AFTER THE WEDDINGMake arrangements to change your name (if you choose) on your social security card, driver's license, passport, vehicle registration, bank accounts, all types of insurance, paychecks, and benefits at your place of employment, credit cards, mortgage companies, voter registration, business cards, frequent-flier programs, and all utility companies. If you are a student, contact your school to notify them of your new name, and ask them to change it in their records. Also contact the post office.